I don't have any experience with ARC, but have owned complete McIntosh systems since 1984. Their service has always been impecable. Keep in mind that I've only had to use their service department a handful of times,and attribute this to the awesome quality of their components.I currently have a full Mac system which costs me upward of $4o,ooo.I'm well aware of other companies whose products are also extremely well made and produce exceptenal sound, but I am a Mac junkie and absolutely love their products, as well as the company itself, whose labs in Bingimton, NY I have visited.
Audio Research has the Best Customer Service
Not only does their stuff sound awesome! Smooth / Musical. They have the best customer service too! I picked up a CD-2 here on Audiogon (One of the nicest sounding players around). I called up ARC and asked if they had any left over Brochures on this model, I told her I picked up a second hand CD-2. The friendly Lady on the phone said I will have a look. This morning I got a brochure and a review in the mail. In the Past they also walked me threw biasing my amp for twenty minutes. This is a Brand to be proud of, I reccomend ARC highly to all!